Registering to vote takes less time than brewing a cup of coffee in the morning. It takes less time than walking across the Ithaca College campus and certainly less time than watching an episode of whatever reality show is a must-see this week.

With uncertain job prospects and higher debt, it’s no wonder many students decide to simply tune out during election years, unsure about their power to make a noticeable difference when it come to politics.

So be selfish if you have to. If you don’t believe your vote matters in the election, then vote because you believe in basic freedoms. Vote because you want to prove to yourself that you have a strong voice with strong convictions. Vote because, whether your candidate wins or loses, you want to at least prove you are capable of making a choice.

Whether it’s watching the upcoming debates, or at least clips of the debates from “The Daily Show,” educating yourself on the candidates and the issues, by whatever means, is a crucial step to ensure that your vote represents your voice.